The German automaker Daimler Truck announced on Tuesday that online retail giant Amazon has made its largest-ever order of electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 vehicles, purchasing a total of 202 units. This significant acquisition highlights the growing trend towards sustainability in the transportation sector, with both companies committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the adoption of battery-powered lorries.
According to data from the European Commission, heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) account for six percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union, and more than a quarter of road transport emissions within the bloc. Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change, EU regulations mandate that truck manufacturers collectively reduce the emissions generated by their vehicles by 45 percent by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. This target is set to increase to 65 percent by 2035 and 90 percent by 2040, underscoring the industry’s shift towards cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions.
As one of the world’s leading truck manufacturers in terms of volume, Daimler Truck has been at the forefront of electric vehicle development, delivering a total of 4,035 electric vehicles worldwide last year out of a production of over 460,000 units. The eActros 600, which was unveiled in late 2023, has already garnered significant interest, with approximately 2,000 orders received to date, reflecting the growing demand for electric heavy-duty vehicles in the market.
Former Daimler Truck CEO Martin Daum expressed confidence in the eActros, noting that it represents the future of the company. He emphasized the vehicle’s impressive performance in real-world conditions, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the trucking industry by offering a viable alternative to traditional diesel models. Amazon’s decision to utilize the eActros 600 in its operations in the UK and Germany further validates the vehicle’s capabilities and underscores its suitability for commercial applications.
The eActros 600 boasts an impressive range, capable of traveling approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) on a single charge, making it a practical option for long-haul transportation needs. While the sale price of an eActros 600 is higher than that of an equivalent diesel model, the investment in sustainability and reduced operating costs over the vehicle’s lifespan make it a compelling choice for companies looking to transition to cleaner energy solutions.
In contrast to Daimler Truck’s success in electric vehicle adoption, competitor Traton, Volkswagen’s truck-making unit, reported a decline in electric vehicle sales last year. The firm noted an 18 percent decrease in sales of electric vehicles, which currently represent only 0.5 percent of the total vehicles sold by the company. This disparity highlights the varying degrees of commitment to sustainability within the industry and underscores the importance of accelerating the transition to electric vehicles to mitigate the environmental impact of transportation operations.
In conclusion, Amazon’s acquisition of 202 electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 vehicles from Daimler Truck represents a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas
